Graphic Design

Graphic Design Fundamentals

The graphic design program in the Mary Schiller Myers School of Art encompasses the many specialized areas within the visual communications field. Faculty members provide diverse academic and professional expertise, while seven well-equipped graphic design studios enable students to gain experience with technology that is standard in the industry. The curriculum prepares students for this competitive field by emphasizing critical thinking and logical problem solving.

Advanced students have the opportunity to work with clients, printers, service bureaus and other professionals in the field. The students hone their design skills, business savvy, technical knowledge and teamwork abilities.

Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees, providing comprehensive preparation for professional practice, also are offered in the following areas:

Ceramics

Jewelry and Metalsmithing

Painting and Drawing

Photography

Printmaking

Sculpture

Students in the Mary Schiller Myers School of Art at UA also may earn a Bachelor of Arts in:

Art Education

Art History

Studio Art

Our Faculty

are practicing artists, designers and scholars

place a premium on personal attention and excellent advising

work side-by-side with students to help turn aspirations into accomplishments

Akron Advantage

Hands-on Experience

The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art, located in Folk Hall, offers 70,000 square feet of learning space — enabling students to explore new areas of creative research and ensuring that their professional skills are cutting edge. Well-equipped studios are devoted to:

ceramics

commercial photography

computer imaging

drawing

illustration

jewelry and metalsmithing

painting

photography

sculpture

two-dimensional design

three-dimensional design

Folk Hall also is home to the Emily Davis Art Gallery, which showcases art and design of regional, national and international significance as well as student, juried student and scholarship exhibitions.

In addition, art majors benefit from the visiting artists and lecture series sponsored by the Mary Schiller Myers School of Art.

Real World Experience

Students are encouraged to participate in co-op programs and internships. In recent years, students have participated in co-op and internship programs at such diverse sites as:

Sample Curriculum

For More Information:

Career Opportunities

Degrees and Preparation

A B.F.A. in Graphic Design paves for a variety of careers as a communicator in the visual arts, including graphic design, Web design, photography, photo editing and illustrating as well as work as a creative director.

Career Outlook

The federal government predicts job opportunities for talented individuals will grow as new careers continue to emerge in the interactive media field.

Career Services

Career Services is located in Student Union 211, with another office in College of Arts and Sciences Building 126. Career Services provides career coaching and programming, and develops valuable relationships with employers and campus partners to provide students with many opportunities for experiential learning and career development.